Czech garden advice: summer pruning of columnar apples and early powdery mildew control

Gardeners in the Czech Republic are advised to perform a summer prune on columnar apple trees in June. Cutting back vigorous side shoots to the second or third bud helps the tree retain a slender shape and improves fruit production, while leaving the top growth untouched until the desired height is reached.

For cucumbers, zucchini and other gourds, early detection of powdery mildew—visible as a white, flour‑like coating on leaves—is crucial. Affected foliage should be removed and discarded away from compost, and growers should improve ventilation, avoid overhead watering, and apply natural sprays such as diluted milk, whey or a soda‑soap solution. If the disease spreads, appropriate fungicides may be used, respecting pre‑harvest intervals.